BJP Appoints Controversial Councillor Amid Backlash in Maharashtra

The Bharatiya Janata Party's recent decision to appoint Tushar Apte, implicated in a sexual abuse case, as a co-opted councillor has ignited significant controversy. Following public outcry, the party quickly revoked the appointment. Apte, who was secretary at the institution where the abuse occurred, faces serious allegations under child protection laws. This incident raises questions about accountability within political appointments and the implications of such decisions on public trust. As the situation unfolds, the party's leadership is under scrutiny for their actions regarding Apte's selection.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jan 11, 2026, 17:01 IST

Controversial Appointment Sparks Outrage

On Friday, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) appointed an individual implicated in the Badlapur sexual abuse incident as a co-opted councillor for the Kulgaon-Badlapur Municipal Council in Thane district, Maharashtra. This decision has drawn significant criticism from various quarters.

Following the backlash, the BJP swiftly revoked the appointment on the same day, as reported by various news outlets.

A co-opted councillor is appointed by the existing council to fill a vacancy, rather than being elected by the public.

Tushar Apte, who held the position of secretary at the educational institution where two young girls were reportedly abused in 2024, has been at the center of this controversy.

The two four-year-old girls were allegedly assaulted by Akshay Shinde, a male attendant at their school, on August 12, 2024, with the complaint lodged four days later.

Shinde was arrested on August 17, 2024, but was killed on September 23, 2024, during a police transfer, with authorities claiming he attempted to seize a weapon and was shot in the ensuing exchange of fire.

On January 20, 2025, a magistrate in Thane informed the Bombay High Court that five police officers were found accountable for Shinde’s death while in custody.

Apte faces charges under the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences Act for allegedly failing to report the abuse. He was arrested 44 days post-incident and was released on bail within two days. The case against him is currently pending in court.

Ruchita Ghorpade, the council chairperson, confirmed that Apte was among five co-opted councillors, with two nominated by the BJP, two by the Shiv Sena, and one by the Nationalist Congress Party.

In defense of the appointment, BJP councillor Rajan Ghorpade stated, “Although he is named as an accused, his guilt has not been established.”

Ghorpade further noted that Apte had been instrumental in the party's success, which led to his selection for this role.

However, state Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule later announced that Apte had resigned, and the party leadership would investigate the circumstances surrounding his appointment.